Former Trump adviser Peter Navarro pleads not guilty, will fight contempt of Congress charges

Washington – Former President Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro pleaded not guilty Friday to two charges of contempt of Congress.

The charges against Navarro stem from his refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House select committee investigating the assault on the Capitol that took place on Jan. 6, 2021. The committee had asked Navarro to testify and provide documents related to the Trump administration's efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. 

Navarro's lawyers asked Friday that his trial date be delayed in order to allow him to promote his upcoming book in September, telling the court that it is "important to him for his livelihood." 

After his arraignment, Navarro complained to reporters about his treatment.

"I thought that we could handle this matter in a civilized way dealing with constitutional issues. Obviously being put in leg irons and having people want to put me in prison has changed matters," he said.